via TJC
But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.” 1 Samuel 16:7
Your car; Your lawn; How many push ups that you look like you can do; Your job; Whether or not you command others. In my daily life, nearly every message and image informs me that these are the measures of a man’s value.
My neighbors and co-workers appear to agree. Many women (attractive or not, unavailable or not) signal that this is the case. Movies, billboards and skin-care commercials reinforce a web of deceit about who you really are.
What is it that you believe? Who are you - really?
The idea that the Lord does not look at the things people look at completely blows my mind. So, then what does he look at? He told Samuel that he looks at my heart.
My heart. It beats and strives forward, driving my body. My heart. When I’m knocked down, its fire says “Get up!”. My heart - broken when I heard the horrible news. In the stillness of my heart the Lord called my name, picked me back up, and reminded me of his love.
The Lord doesn’t look at shiny crap. These are the things that people look at. The Lord is looking at you now - He’s looking at your heart.
Daily Battle Order:
Are you in touch with the language of the heart through the Holy in Spirit in Jesus Christ? Are you hardened or not empathetic?
Today, take stock of whose outward appearance you are judging - including yourself.
I believe Pastor Kurt Skelly's message from last Sunday expands on this nicely from the Gospel of John...
What Do You Say About Yourself?
https://subspla.sh/by87g7s